How to Create Unique and Trendy Candles

In most instances when you walk into a candle shop of any type, the predominate candle appears to be the jar candles. There are so many different types of jars on the market and so many different fragrances available that the consumer can truly find what they like.

It seems the forgotten candle is always the pillar candle. This does not have to be the case when all things are considered. There can be many choices when making pillars - there are more choices and styles than you may think.

The most common type of pillars on the market are your traditional round molds usually made with aluminum molds. This type of mold is easy to use and, when used properly, will last for many years in your production. They run from a 2" diameter up to around 6" diameter. The most popular sizes in the round aluminum molds are 3" x 3", 3" x 4-1/2" and 4" x 4-1/2". These molds can be used with any scent load you desire and can be poured as hot as you would like.

Like container candles the temperature you pour pillars can influence the finish of the candle. Pouring pillar candle very hot (200F to 205F) into aluminum molds can make a very nice shiny finish when using most blends. Others may like a more rustic approach and can pour the candles at a very low temperature of something like 150F. Aluminum molds also come in other shapes like square and octagon and with the square molds have a nice round corner to help with release from the mold.

To make candles outside the ordinary, you have to look at the polycarbonate molds which Candlewic commonly calls "Designer Molds". This style of mold comes in a huge selection of styles and sizes ranging from a somewhat common round ball mold to the opening bud polycarbonate mold.

The design potential when using these molds is endless. There are so many styles and unique shapes that you can really make some fantastic types of candles. Throw in some of the pattern waxes or layered candles and you can really make your line stand out from your competitors. When making pillar candles the focus is more on the color and shape than the fragrance.

One of the current trends is making tarts and/or floaters in unique shapes and patterns. In the past this was most reserved for the standard scallop shape. Now there is a huge selection of shapes and patterns including heart, fish and duck to mention a few. Pour these with no wick and they make a great tart or insert a wick and you have a unique floating candle.

Even with the most basic votive candle, there are few choices to make this candle. The traditional 15 hour votive is the best selling mold and when used with a votive wick pin making votives is very simple. The octagon votive can make for a very unique look too.

While polyurethane is not as popular as it once was it is still the best material for making tapers. Tapers can be a great addition to your line as well, especially beeswax tapers.